Topeak bags and racks - MTX and RX - What's the difference?
 

Trying to decide on a new rack/bag system for my commuter, so I can easily tote the bag inside instead of having to deal with it in the dark and rain. Looking at the Topeak system - does anyone know the difference between the MTX and RX racks/bags?

Thanks!

I ordered the MTX today and I will receive it Thursday. I have the Topeak Explorer rack on my Specialized Sectuer. According to all the reviews I have read the rack and the bag are a match made in heaven. Not sure about the RX but the MTX has a top compartment and foldout panniers.

The biggest difference (if I am understanding the info on the Topeak site) is that the RX line is exclusively beam rack and have smaller sized bags and smaller weight capacities. MTX comes in either beam or standard rack flavors and the bags range from 8l to 22l.

If you are considering dropping that kind of coin, take a look at the Racktime products before pulling the trigger.

One thing I noticed about my Topeak rack + MTX EXP bag: the panniers start from the top of the rack-top bag, so the end of the pannier is a little higher than the other panniers. I didn't try other panniers, but I suspect I may have heel strike on other panniers.

I have the MTX system on my CX commuter bike. No heel strike at all. It is the perfect system for my needs. Not cheap, but very sturdy and well made. I keep my tools and spares in the outside flap, and the rain cover in the inside flap. The lighting battery goes in the rear pocket. The trunk is big enough for light load days. The panniers hold a week's worth of clothes. When loaded the bike weighs over 40 pounds, but the load is rock solid stable.